Over 160 Urdu poetry enthusiasts gathered at the prestigious Civic Centre, Wembley to join Aqueel Danish and friends to launch his book: Pairaya – e – izhaar” a collection of poems on Friday 17th October 2014. An excellent evening was had by all, starting with delicious refreshments in Wembley Library where attendees and guests were given the opportunity to join Brent Libraries and also borrow loan copies of the book.

Gulshan Iqbal, Chair of ALAG opened the event with a welcome and introduction to Aqueel Danish’s enormous contribution to the field of Urdu literature.

ALAG members enjoy an evening of poetry

Aqueel Danish and friends recite poetry from his book

ALAG members would like to thank Mrs Tasneem Danish for her contribution to the success of the evening and for the extensive support received from Brent Libraries’ staff, Development Managers Sarah Smith throughout the planning process and Stephanie Wilson on the event evening itself as well as members of the Events Team.

Copies of the book were sold out and many attendees gave positive verbal feedback, asking for more events in Urdu and acknowledging the support from Brent Libraries.

Members of the press were also in attendance to record the event and take it to the wider community

As Cityread 2014 comes to a close at the end of April you still have a chance to experience reading brought to life on Saturday 26th April from 1.45 – 4.30pm at the fabulous Wembley Library. The Tamil Reading group which meets every month will be discussing My Dear I wanted to tell you by Louisa Young using the translated synopsis beautifully produced by Tamil Reading Group member Rani Srinivasan on behalf of ALAG.

Full details of the event can be found here:

To add to the occasion, videographer Sophie Williams from the Look Left Look Right team and Cityread organiser Andy Ryan will be attending and hoping to film the reading group in action. Judging by the above poster it is going to be a colourful and vibrant afternoon – not to be missed!